The best hour of the day is clearly happy hour. I mean it IS always happy. And because it is Thursday, we have to start off the weekend right. And what better way then at a classy joint with cheap prices and great food.

Steak, calamari, drinks, yes please!

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse has a pretty exceptional happy hour. For a place that even lawyers can’t regularly attend, their happy hour is definitely a steal. Fleming’s happy hour deal is 5 for $6 until 7. Okay, let’s break that down. Five items on each of the wine, cocktails, and appetizers lists. All for $6. Until 7PM. Amazing, right? Included in this deal is their burger (again only $6) and an IPA deal, 2 for $6. The catch? It is only in the bar area, so you have to get there early or stalk people for a seat. But if you don’t mind being a little creepy, then elbow your way to the bar and order yourself a Moscow Mule and some Sweet Chili Calamari to start your weekend off right!

What are some of your favorite happy hour spots? Any good drink deals during the week?

There’s nothing better than that mid-day break. Not only do you get to stop working, but you get to stuff your face with some yummy goodness before that afternoon nap going back to work. So when my co-workers took me to a place literally behind our building that was super tasty, it felt like I had entered heaven. Food coma, and a short walk, it can’t get better than that.

Juliette Kitchen + Bar is the perfect lunch time escape. Located in Newport Beach in a little shopping market off of Bristol and Jamboree, it has both indoor and outdoor space. Although it is a bit pricey (three dollar signs on yelp), it is a fun “every once in a while” place to eat. The roasted vegetable sandwich is one of my favorite entrees along with a side of those fries. It’s open for dinner as well so stop in for an after work wine flight or dinner with some friends!

We made it halfway through the week, and now we need a little something extra to make it ’til the weekend. Try The Cannery. This Newport Beach spot will perk up anyone’s work day.Happy hour is from 4:00-6:30 in the “Jellyfish Lounge” only. The best bang for your buck is the half priced sushi, but make sure you wash it down with a $3.50 draft beer. While you will be surrounded by cougars (and no I’m not referring to the animal), at least the view of Back Bay is beautiful. Come early as it is first come, first served and people will not be leaving until Happy Hour is over. The two person White Sangria is worth a try: you can share it, or call yourself a cab! Fresh fish and decent cocktails should be on everyone’s to-do list.

Beer around a fire pit.

Special Find for you Adventurers:

All though it may sound unusual, Whole Foods at Fashion Island has weekly events for the community. Today, Back Bay Tavern, their attempt at a gastro pub, has a Beer and Dessert special from 4PM to closing. Five 4 ounce pours and two desserts for only $12. Have your tastings and then grab something to eat on the outside patio if it warms up. If the Tavern’s food prices are too steep, Whole Foods has one of the largest pre-made food selections in OC. Grab soup, a sandwich, pizza or even Japanese food and sit at one of the twenty-some tables outside. Worth a try and won’t hurt your wallet.